RQ unveils plans to lift racing's profile

The Racing Queensland board has used a trip to Townsville to unveil an updated strategic plan which it believes can making racing the No.1 sporting industry in the state.

RQ is keen to involve country and provincial areas as much as possible in expansion plans and had its monthly board meeting in Townsville where the strategic plan was a major topic.

It released a new-look strategic plan and an updated infrastructure plan which outlines it aims:

- lifting the current two racing events classed as iconic to five;

- four new world-class racing facilities including a new greyhound track, new harness track, night racing at the Gold Coast and night racing at Doomben;

- $300 million in revenue;

- $250 in payments to participants and;

- one million attendees and participants per annum.

In a media statement RQ chief executive Brendan Parnell said the organisation's updated plans were centred on increasing returns to participants and enhancing amenities across the state.

"This includes expanding our iconic race events from two to five, while growing our weekly major events which take place across Sunshine State communities," he said.

"Whether it's the Birdsville Cup, Cairns Amateurs, Magic Millions or pacing from the Ekka, racing is all about great events which connect the community."

RQ's updated Infrastructure Plan has outlined a number of key priority projects valued at $2 million or more that are proposed to be funded out of the Racing Infrastructure Fund.

To help advance those projects, RQ has already drawn down on feasibility funding for a new greyhound venue and the Gold Coast Turf Club's tracks and lights development, which is central to the night racing strategy.

A replacement synthetic track at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club, a new metropolitan harness facility and lights at Doomben are among the other listed priority projects.

In recent times, the RIF has been accessed to upgrade the course proper at Eagle Farm, the re-development of the Ipswich Turf Club and the start of the country and regional capital works program.